The Dominica Labour Party (DLP) has officially ratified economist, entrepreneur and youth advocate Ashma McDougall as its candidate for the Roseau North constituency, setting the stage for what could become one of the island’s most closely watched political contests in the coming months.
The decision was unanimously approved by the party’s National Executive Committee after McDougall emerged as the sole nominee put forward by the Roseau North Constituency Association. Her selection follows the resignation of former Parliamentary Representative Miriam Blanchard, who stepped down on medical grounds earlier this month, creating a vacancy in the constituency.
In announcing the decision, the DLP thanked Blanchard for her years of service to Roseau North and the wider country, while extending best wishes for her continued recovery.
McDougall described her nomination as both an honour and a significant responsibility. She said she was grateful for the confidence placed in her by the party, constituency executives and residents who encouraged her to enter representative politics.
“I am humbled and honoured by the vote of confidence reposed in me by the Dominica Labour Party, the Roseau North Constituency Association, and the many constituents who have encouraged me to step forward at this important time,” she stated.
A native of Bath Estate who resides in Goodwill, McDougall brings a background that spans economics, business development, youth leadership and organisational management. Over the years, she has served in several leadership roles, including President of the National Youth Council of Dominica and Executive Director of the Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce (DAIC). She has also been involved in initiatives focused on entrepreneurship, youth empowerment and economic development.
Prime Minister and Political Leader of the Dominica Labour Party, Roosevelt Skerrit, welcomed her selection, describing McDougall as part of a new generation of leaders capable of contributing to national development. He said her candidacy reflects the party’s continuing effort to attract qualified and energetic individuals with the skills needed to address contemporary challenges.
McDougall pledged to work closely with residents of Roseau North and focus on strengthening communities, expanding opportunities and delivering practical results. With a by-election constitutionally due unless Parliament is dissolved beforehand, attention is now turning to the political future of the constituency and the campaign that is expected to unfold in the weeks ahead.
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